The Nigerian Senate has taken a bold step by passing for second reading a bill that designates kidnapping, hostage-taking, and related offences as acts of terrorism, pushing for the death penalty without any alternative sentences.
Sponsored by Senate Leader Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele and backed by 108 senators, the bill highlights the alarming rise of organised, brutal kidnappings that cripple communities, disrupt education, and bankrupt families nationwide. Bamidele stressed that these crimes have evolved into coordinated terrorist-like acts requiring stronger legal measures.
Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu and Sen. Victor Umeh echoed the need for tough laws to stop kidnappers, their sponsors, and facilitators, including financial institutions. The bill promises to empower security agencies with greater authority.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged quick action, moving the bill to committees for speedy legislative processes, stressing the urgency to protect Nigerians’ future.
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